Lafer Pre-Program Internship in Book & Paper Conservation at U-M Library
Listing Start Date: February 21, 2025
Expires: March 17, 2025
Lafer Pre-Program Internship in Book and Paper Conservation, University of Michigan Library, Preservation Services
Job Summary
The University of Michigan Library is pleased to offer a pre-graduate program conservation internship for the summer of 2025 made possible through generous support from the Mark and Theresa Lafer Conservation and Digital Preservation Internship Fund.
This internship is intended for a person interested in pursuing a career in conservation, ideally through admission to a graduate program in conservation. The intern will gain hands-on conservation experience in the book and paper conservation lab that cares for the rare and special collections of the U-M Library.
Required Qualifications
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Possess a high school diploma and either currently enrolled in or have completed undergraduate-level courses or degrees
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A desire to pursue a career in conservation
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Demonstrated ability and desire to perform exacting work with one’s hands
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Excellent hand-eye coordination, patience, and attention to detail
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Willingness to accept constructive criticism
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Strong writing skills commensurate with current academic level
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Good organizational and interpersonal skills
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Be a United States citizen or hold a permit to work in the United States
Desired Qualifications
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Undergraduate college courses in studio art, art history (or other disciplines related to material history or material culture), and chemistry
Additional Information
The internship is for 8 weeks, to be scheduled between June 2 and August 15, 2025. The work week for the intern is 32 hours, and the intern will be asked to set a consistent weekly work schedule during the regular working hours of the supervisory conservators.
Pay: $18.00/hr. The position does not include benefits or an allowance for moving expenses.
Physical Demands/Work Environment and Mode of Work
Work must be completed onsite in the U-M Library conservation laboratory on the Ann Arbor campus of the University of Michigan. The position cannot be done remotely. Must move and transport materials that weigh up to 40 pounds. Must follow established safety procedures for working with chemicals, mold, and light shop machinery.
How to Apply
To ensure full consideration, please submit the following:
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A cover letter describing your interest in the field of conservation and what you hope to gain from this internship
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A resume that includes a section listing relevant college coursework, if applicable
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One reference, including name, contact information, and your professional relationship
Please note that applicants who are considered for the internship will be asked to come for an onsite interview. During the interview, applicants will be asked to show examples of work that demonstrate the required hand skills (actual work is preferred, but photographs are acceptable). Applicants will also be asked to complete a simple test of hand skills and dexterity. Please note that we can not provide travel money to attend the interview.
Email application materials to [email protected]. Applications are due by 5pm (EST) Monday, March 17.
U-M EEO/AA Statement
The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.